McIlroy forced out with rib problem

GOLF: A rib injury has forced Rory McIlroy to pull out of this week's Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.

The world No.2 played through the pain as he lost in a playoff to Englishman Graeme Storm at the South African Open on Sunday and had even considered pulling out of that event.

The Northern Irishman had a scan on Monday and has been diagnosed with a stress fracture to a rib.

No timetable has been given for his return, with McIlroy saying in a statement: "To be forced to miss this week through injury is really quite annoying to be perfectly honest, but I am sure the tournament will be a huge success and I hope everyone involved has a great week.

"In situations like this you simply have to listen to the experts and the team I have consulted have all advised me to rest until my rib has fully recovered.”